Investigating the Relevance of Cultural Landscapes in Tourism Experience in Abeokuta

Tourism is a modern global phenomenon, and the synergy between this phenomenon and cultural landscapes has increased the demand at both local and international levels. This paper investigates the relationship between cultural landscape and tourism, especially in Abeokuta, Ogun State. This is on the premise of bringing about sustainable development in tourism, thereby enhancing the cultural and economic values of the site. The study is important as it provides a medium for the assessment of Abeokuta cultural landscapes, and relates the influencing factors with the assessment results. This was carried out through a critical review of existing literature on cultural landscapes and the inseparable link with tourism, as well as an empirical investigation using the quantitative method of data collection through questionnaire survey on all stakeholders in the tourism industry in Abeokuta. The data generated from the survey were analyzed and results were expressed in percentages. The findings revealed that cultural landscapes actually have a positive input regarding sustainable development, and also have immense contributions towards the wellbeing of man. It also brought to limelight, the factors contributing to the quality of landscapes in Abeokuta. The paper therefore strongly recommends that adequate information should be made available to all stakeholders to improve their interest and participation, which brings about effective management, and subsequently, sustainable tourism.